We investigated the effectiveness of non-herbicidal agents to control weeds in sugar beets. Experiments were performed under field and laboratory conditions. We monitored the level of effect of 50, 70 and 100% solutions of vinegar, and alcohol, also 50, 70 and 1000C hot water, and an open flame. The sensitivity/efficiency under laboratory conditions was tested by analyzing the changes in the chlorophyll content of weeds (Abutilon teophrasti, Chenopodium album) and sugar beet plants. The obtained results indicate that any method of weed control in sugar beet is acceptable, especially when aiming to reduce the use of herbicides. Application of flame (with shields) was shown to be the safest alternative weed control measure. Weeds and sugar beet plants are sensitive to treatments with alcohol, vinegar, flame and hot water as measured by chlorophyll content.
Miličević et al. (Thu,) studied this question.